Implantable collamer lenses (ICL) – also known as implantable contact lenses – are very thin lenses that are implanted into the eye to correct focusing errors. The lenses are implanted behind the iris and in front of the natural lens which is left in place. In this way they work together with your natural lens to correct your vision.
As the natural lens is retained, so is accommodation (the ability to focus for close work). These lenses are generally better suited for younger patients who can still accommodate. They are also suited for patients that are contact lens intolerant or those with high prescriptions.
Collamer is a unique material that contains collagen.
The name comes from a combination of “collagen” and “polymer”. This state of the art technology has some unique characteristics that make it an ideal material for a vision correction lens.
Glasses may still be required for some activities after treatment, particularly reading in older patients, but these will be a low prescription and relatively inexpensive.
ICLs are highly effective at treating both high glasses prescriptions and astigmatism. For most patients, vision after ICL surgery is very similar to the vision gained through wearing contact lenses, without the hassle, discomfort and limitations on activity.
Shortsightedness and astigmatism normally stabilize in the late teens or early 20s, but natural prescription changes can occur at any stage in life. As such, enhancements such as laser surgery are sometimes required in the years after ICL implantation to improve distance vision.
Alternatively, a major advantage of ICLs is that they can be surgically removed or replaced at a later stage, allowing for the natural changes in vision as you age and prescriptions may change.
Patients with a shallow anterior chamber and a narrow drainage angle are not suitable for ICL surgery. Patients who are pregnant and nursing should not have any form of refractive eye surgery.
Mr Voyatzis will discuss with you the suitability for ICL surgery following a careful and detailed evaluation of your eyes.
ICL surgery is a day-case procedure. Usually both eyes are operated on on the same day. The surgery itself usually takes 15 minutes per eye.
No, this is a completely pain free the procedure. Anaesthetic drops are used to completely numb the eye before the beginning of the procedure. Additionally sedation can be given to keep you relaxed during the operation. There is also the option of a General Anaesthetic but it is very rarely necessary.
Your vision will start to improve a few hours after the surgery, although it will continue to improve in the days following the operation. It is very important to understand though that the recovery time can vary significantly between individuals and even between the eyes of the same patient.
No, the implants are readily removable.
No, the ICL can not be felt after it is implanted. It will also not be noticeable to yourself or others after the surgery.
ICL implants are a popular and safe alternative to laser refractive surgery. The ICL lenses have been introduced more than 20 years ago and more than 800,000 lenses have been implanted worldwide since then. The ICL system has earned a reputation for proven patient satisfaction and long-term safety
Overall, ICL surgery is very safe and effective. As with any procedure though there are risks to consider.
The most common complication with any refractive procedure is overcorrection or under-correction. Because the EVO lens can be removed, adjustments can be made to reduce any sort of overcorrection or under-correction. The same risks apply to the second surgery.
Halos & Night Glare
In any refractive procedure there is a possibility of halos and glare around lights at night. The symptoms usually improve with time.
Damage to the Crystalline Lens (Development of cataract)
Since EVO is placed inside the eye, there is potential risk in touching the eye’s natural (crystalline) lens. While occurring in less than 1.5% of patients, any damage to the natural lens may cause an opacity (cataract) of the lens. In the most serious case, this may require removal of the cataractous natural lens and replacement with a synthetic lens.
Increase in Eye Pressure
In some cases, an increase in eye pressure can occur as a result of the procedure. If this occurs, it may quickly be corrected with additional medication or surgical intervention.
Risk of Infection
All surgical or refractive procedures involve some form of invasiveness, which means there is a risk of infection. This potentially very serious complication is very uncommon (Less than 1 in a thousand).
Yes. An annual review of your vision and eye health is advisable.
For prices and enquiries, please contact:
Miss Ines Ribeiro
+44 (0) 2074594045
admin@georgevoyatzis.co.uk
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